Ukrainian drones strike deep in Russian territory, Moscow says, while a barrage in Kyiv kills 2

Ukraine launched a series of drone attacks deep into western Russia, targeting military assets and causing significant damage. The attacks hit an airport near Russia's border with Estonia and Latvia, causing a fire and damaging four Il-76 military transport planes. Other regions hit included Oryol, Ryazan, Kaluga, and Bryansk. Three main Moscow airports temporarily halted incoming and outgoing flights.

Ukraine has been using drones with increasing frequency in recent months as it pursues a counteroffensive against Russia. These attacks are likely intended to stretch the Kremlin's military resources and draw air defense systems away from other areas.

Russia responded to the drone attacks by launching its own attacks on Kyiv, using Iranian-made Shahed exploding drones and air-launched missiles. Two security guards were killed and another person was injured in the attacks.

The article also reports that Russia and North Korea have exchanged letters as Moscow seeks munitions for the war. The White House says it has new intelligence that confirms this exchange.